No Start and a Normal Sound

Unlike many diagnosis, a slow starting sound can be traced back to a number of potential problems. Let's go over each to see if we cannot find your problem.

1. Is it the Battery?
The simplest cause of the slow start problem can be a low or discharged battery. If the starter motor cannot get enough energy from the battery to turn over fast enough it will not start the car.

2. Starter Motor
If your problem isn't due to a weak or partially discharged battery, you may be looking at a faulty starter motor. If the car was running for some time recently and you have reason to believe the battery has a charge, you might have a worn starter. Have your mechanic test your starter draw to check for this problem.

3. Faulty connection
Also fairly common is a faulty connection somewhere between the battery and the starter. If the wiring that connects the two is loose, shorted, or show other signs of a problem this may well be the cause of the dilemma. (As always, also always inspect the battery terminals for "crud" and insure they are securely fastened.)

Question not answered here?
Check our auto repair forums and message boards to get a quick answer.